Taste of Home Entertaining Opportunity

I am currently a Team Leader of an extensive and productive team for another direct sales company. I worked very hard to accomplish this within one year.

However, when I heard about this opportuinty, I definitely wanted to learn more.

I established contact with one of the Launch Team consultants a few weeks ago. After learning the details, I am already making plans to phase out my current business to prepare for the explosive Launch of Taste of Home Entertaining!

I look forward to starting a Texas team.

I left a very successful downline with another company to become a Launch Team Director with Taste of Home ENTERTAINING. The response has been incredible and I’m looking forward to many years of fun and success!

I left a successful direct sales career with another company to join Taste of Home Entertaining. I have met Bill Shaw and he has an incredible plan! This will be the place to be for many years to come! Contact me for all the details – I would love to share with you!

I have recently signed on as Charter Consultant with Taste of Home Entertaining. The buzz around this company is something that I have not witnessed before. I am very excited that I am able to be part of this pre-launch opportunity. Now is the time to build a great team.

I visited Bill Shaw many weeks ago and I was impressed from the moment I walked into the Corporate Headquarters to view the products, compensation plan, hostess benefits, and to hear what an unbelievable opportunity is present for anyone joining now. That is why I agreed to become a Corporate Launch Team Member. The financial backing and name recognition, not to mention the prior successes Bill has demonstrated, make the Taste Of Home Entertaining Opportunity one I could not resist.

Being able to work with Bill Shaw again and in my home state of WI was just too good an opportunity to pass up. As a team leader in WI, I am so excited to become a consultant with Taste of Home entertaining when we launch in January 2006. This is the most anticipated launch in direct sales history. I’ve never seen anything like this in my seven years in direct sales leadership. I’ve left behind a large, established team with another successful party plan to follow my passion…and I know in my heart that this opportunity was one I did not want to pass up! And it’s paid off already. as I’ve begun building a team across 5 states. I can’t wait to see how it grows in my own back yard!

Hello, My name is Karen and I am a member of the Launch Team. I thrilled to be a part of this amazing New Company, Taste of Home ENTERTAINING! Bill & Robin Shaw our President and Vice President have over 35 years experience in Direct Sales. I have had the privilege to have worked with them in my previous Direct Sales Company. Bill and Robin have proven they know what it takes to run the most successful Party Plan Company! I would love to share more information with about joining my team as we help build the foundation of this amazing new company,
Taste of Home ENTERTAINING!

Hi, my name is Sandra Santiago and I am very excited to be a part of “Taste Of Home Entertaining”. After a very successful year with a home decorating direct sales company, I am making a very positive & wise change. I have found all that I hoped to find a direct sales company. This is definitely the way to get started and to build a team. It’s also very exciting to share this opportunity with many. After hearing that Bill Shaw is invloved and of his prior success, I knew I was in!!! My mission is to have a great time sharing the products with everyone, helping other’s in achieving their goals and dreams, and mine too! Good Luck to the launch of “Taste Of Home Entertaining”, all who see the vision and endless possiblities…it’s a great start for a New Year 2006!

I learned more from my past team and experiences in the direct sales industry than I did my 20 years in the corporate world. A dear friend once said, the market is proven, the business is proven the only wild card is you. How true that is. So much we learn can’t be explained ahead of the experience itself and nothing can replace it. I’m looking forward to the years to come with Taste of Home Entertaining as the opportunity has so many incredible things to offer this amazing industry.

I love the Food Network and Rachel Ray! Who doesen’t? I have prior experience in the Direct Sales field and absolutly love it! I get to work around my Family’s crazy schedule while still making a great profit! The second I came across this offer, I knew it was for me! The response I received from this opportunity within the first day I decided to join has been above and beyond anything I have ever experienced! Everyone loves to entertain!

With Taste of Home, who can go wrong? I’ve been a Taste of Home reader for years. I was thrilled when a friend shared with me the Taste of Home opportunity. I am already building a team across the United States and looking forward to sharing the excitement of the TOHE product line and business opportunity in Wisconsin, my home state and beyond!

OK. I have to speak up here. I don’t mind enthusiastic associates talking about their business but…

“With Taste of Home, who could go wrong?”

YOU could go wrong. This company has not even launched yet. I don’t want to rain on your parade, but please try to add value to the comments. This is starting to appear like an orchestrated effort.

Ty, thank you for the feedback. I appreciate your input and all the resources you have here on your weblog.

You’re right, any business person can go wrong. I’m sure we’ve both seen business’ fizzle or close their doors without notice. My comments stemmed from the success shown through the popularity of the Taste of Home publications.

I remember reading at the Weblog here: “The essence of entrepreneurship is the ability to spot an opportunity and the willingness to go after it despite the risks.”

For me, as a Taste of Home fan …
I see opportunity and I’m willing to take a risk.

Millions of people have found Taste of Home to offer outstanding publications. I look forward to more of the same from Taste of Home Entertaining.

Respectfully.

When something seems too good to be true…..perhaps it is. Those that are unethically undermining the sucess of another company soley for monetary gain is disgraceful. Can you sleep at night?

Susan,

If a person is undermining the success of another company by telling the truth about that company, they should sleep well.

If they aren’t being truthful, it will likely come back to haunt them.

This is to ask why you do not employ people from outside to learn more about your business and I could teach you more, about the home tastes.

Can one of the launch members tell me if there are also food products in the line? When I visit the site, I only see home decor and magazines. thanks!

Steph,
In this first catalog, there are no food products, but the company is looking into a small line of complementary food products for future catalogs.

There is no cooking at our home parties….even if we get a line of food products.

Good Luck!

Amy Weber

I would like to add some new information about our cookware.

“Example: Cookware. At Williams Sonoma, the 2-qt. stainless steel is
37% more expensive than ours. They have 3 ply construction; we have 5
ply. In anodized, their 4-qt. is 41% more expensive than ours and our
quality is better. We have a thicker pan, therefore making the cooking
performance of these items much better. Samples have been received. You
can’t believe the quality and beauty of the samples we’ve seen. The
quality of the product that you’re going to represent is second to none.”

This is truly exciting news. The cookware will also carry a Lifetime Warranty.

In Hospitality,
Amy Weber
Independent Charter Consultant
Taste of Home Entertaining

Can someone please tell me where the corporate headquarters for Taste of Home Entertaining is?

Thanks!

The Home Office is in Milwaukee, WI. (if that’s you Elizabeth, I will have a # for you tomorrow

Hi! My name is Sandy and what a CRAZY 4 days this has been! I just learned about this opportunity Wed. night. At first I thought, “no way!”, I am a Director with another DS company and have had tremendous success in the year I’ve been with them. But then the “business” woman in me took over and I had to think with my head and not my heart (where have I heard THAT before For those in the DS business who I’ve spoken to who “get” the business, joining Taste of Home Entertaining is a no-brainer. What an EXCITING, AMAZING venture we are about to take! One that I and many others are betting on being the BIGGEST Home Party Launch and Party Plan EVER!

If you haven’t looked into TOHE yet, you NEED to! I’d be happy to share ALL the information with you about the opportunity and the most INCREDIBLE Team I am on. The Team you join IS as important as the opportunity!!! Your Leadership will have a TREMENDOUS influence on your success…so make sure to ASK about your team’s track record of providing support, training AND success! Don’t be afraid to ask for a reference or 2 also!

See you at the TOP!

After buidling a successful network with another direct sales company, I joined Taste of Home Entertaining as a Launch Team Leader. It’s an incredible honor to build this fabulous new company! I am beyond exciting to share this opportunity!

I have been looking forward to finding more out about Taste of Home Entertaining. The first time I heard about it I was actually with another direct sales company, but I couldn’t wait to get my hands on more info. I am so excited about this opportunity! We have great team leaders and from what I have seen of the products they are going to be awesome!

I am in Oklahoma and I can see this taking off like gang busters! I have already booked 3 shows for May…and we haven’t an agreement yet! I tell you, this is the place to be!

How are you all doing on recruiting?

Joan Curtis
Oklahoma

Anyone who understands the Direct Sales industry will fall in love with Taste of Home Entertaining, Inc. within seconds! The Career Plan alone is amazing! Finally someone cares about me, the Consultant by recognizing that there actually are slower months! Booking parties has never been so easy for me also! Everyone wants to book a show asap! I am now filling up my calendar for June!
Looking forward to the future……

I was searching the web and came across TOHE. But I have to wonder, what exactly is so new about this? Am I missing something here? Seems like a blend between Pampered Chef and Southern Living at Home. From what I see, the entire plan is identical to Southern Living at Home.

Seems as if Bill Shaw took all SLAH’s ideas and decided to go start his own business? Hasn’t he tried that 3 times before on his own and failed?? Everyone speaks so highly of him, but has anybody looked at what he did before Southern Living? Talk to those who worked with him back then and they’ll tell you about all his promises.

When I heard about this incredible opportunity to join as a Charter Consultant with Taste of Home Entertaining, I immediately knew I wanted to be part of the company. I am looking forward to building a team and having fun in the years to come!

I don’t know what Bill Shaw did for Southern Living at Home but I do know that I am excited about this new opportunity. We have been givin the chance to join a business in the beginning. Because its so new, its easy to recruit new consultants. I trust that Taste of Home Entertaining will do well but I also recognize that this is a leap of faith.

Jenna Frieson
Independent Charter Consultant
Taste of Home Entertaining

Can you feel the excitement? Are you ready for fireworks? Never have a seen such a buzz about a new company starting up. I guess when you put Readers Digest and Bill Shaw together, things just take off! Take off with us on an incredible adventure!
Barbara
Charter Consultant & Trainer
Taste of Home Entertaining

The time is right for a company like Taste of Home Entertaining. We have Food Network Celebrity Chefs–that’s name dropping for you—an association with global publishing giant Reader’s Digest, and a line of products that is so different and so comelling. It isn’t a cross between slah and pc. It is in its own category. Nobody in direct sales has done what we are about to do, and no one will do it better than Taste of Home Entertaining. I am absolutely honored to be a part of the launch of this company–and proud to count Bill Shaw as a leader whom I hold in the highest esteem.

In the Spirit of Hospitality and Generosity,

Amy Weber

I was not a participant in Direct Sales for some time before becoming aware of Taste Of Home Entertaining. I was in skin care a long time ago with a Network Marketing company, and then I became a professional skin therapist, and stopped selling the Network Marketing line. I never thought I would be interested in Direct Sales again, but I suppose that is where the saying “Never say Never” comes in.

I am so glad to have kept in touch with some web sites, and friends though Network Marketing! In just one month, I am so thankful to say that my team has reached 50 in number in 24 states, and goes four levels deep. Of course this is all presuming that those who have reserved their spot will actually buy their kits when available. WE are expecting a 15% attrition, but still, tat’s better than I have ever done with regard to recruiting, and building a team…

All my best,

Nondy

“Talk to those who worked with him back then and they’ll tell you about all his promises. ”

Actually we did. They called us when they saw our ad. They had worked with Bill before, were pleased to hear what he is doing, and told us to say hello to him.

I have also decided to join Taste of Home Entertaining (and am under Jenna)as a consultant after reading the information on the website. I am so excited to be part of a rare opportunity and getting in on the ground floor! I feel confident that our team (hometeam) will be successfull and I have already sent out classified ads for consultants to sign up. I will also be attending the January 23rd opportunity session in Houston. I hope to have a large and powerful team under me when we launch in May 2006. I am also hoping to make this a full time business for myself and believe that with the right training and team that it is possible.

This is in reply to what’s so new comment, “Seems like a blend between Pampered Chef and Southern Living at Home. From what I see, the entire plan is identical to Southern Living at Home.” There are some similarities to Pampered Chef and Southern Living At HOME’s product lines. However, neither of those company’s offer one-stop shopping for everything related to entertaining in your home. We offer not just kitchen products, not just home decor and tableware, but all of those things. And when we add our complete line of gourmet food items next year, we’ll really have the whole package. I think that’s a huge difference. We also have name brand recognition of the largest woman’s and cooking magazine in the country with Taste of Home magazine, whereas Southern Living magazine, as wonderful a publication as it is, is still primarily a regional publication. Furthermore, there are similarities as well between our comp plan and Southern Living At Home. Since a Bill Shaw’s ideas and experience were a huge part of Southern Living At Home’s success, I’m not surprised that he wants to keep what worked well. However, as a former Director with that company, I think he has improved the comp plan for Taste of Home Entertaining significantly. Our Directors and above make 1% more; there is one less level; we offer variable qualification, so group volumes are 20% lower in the traditionally slow months of June, July and December, and we have immediate rollback of Director teams if the Director doesn’t meet her Group Wholesale Volume requirement and doesn’t get paid at the Director level. (I’ve also heard some fabulous news about volume requirements for the top two levels, but until it is confirmed, I’d rather not share yet.)

There are a lot of great companies out there. People are excited about this, and I think some people have gotten a little carried away in their enthusiasm. I love this industry…where else do you succeed by helping other people succeed? But to be successful in it, I really believe that you need to find a product line and a company that you can get excited and enthusiastic about! If Taste of Home Entertaining is the right fit for you, welcome aboard! If not, best wishes in the business of your choice!

I’m excited to be a part of the Most Anticipated Launch in Direct Sales History! What a great time to get in on this wonderful opportunity!

Here’s to our success!

Wow! Is all I can say!! Everything is an exact copy of Southern Living at Home. Boy would I be proud to be a part of this company! Unethical from the beginning is the way to go. Hope Readers Digest gets out of debt soon!

Actually the line is exactly the same. Exept they are a rip off of an already well established company. Also alittle research might do good before posting Fluff. Fluff is what we call in the business world when people claim things that can be said for any other business. For example, “The Most Anticipated DS Launch”, Is fluff. I can say that about the Corn Dog Company I am opening. Bill Shaw didn’t make Southern Living what it is today. Southern Living saved him from becoming another direct sales failure. Looks like he wants to continue down that road. Perhaps a Business class on ethics would be greatly needed here. Also I urge all consultants who are thinking of joining any company do research. You might be suprised to find that Readers Digest doesn’t have the greatest financial backing some are hyping it up to be.

I have to say how thrilledI am with how well things have gone in these first few days! A little over two thousand kits have been reserved, and with the high quality of the entire line, I am a happy gal! We will still be able to recruit and build while we are waiting to have our first shows at the end of April when our kits arrive. What a FABULOUS deal the kit is!

I am so proud to be a part of this incredible company, and look forward to interacting in a positive manner with you all!

Nondy

Aw c’mon ladies,

Sour grapes do not do you service. You are better than that. I would suggest if grapes are your thing a lovely California Merlot tho’

Nondy

As a person who is semi-new to the direct sales/home party plan community, I had no idea that there was such negativity between consultants from the different companies. Hopefully, that will pass as the catalog comes out and we can have more fun. I don’t think that Taste of Home Entertaining was created to say that Southern Living at Home isn’t a good company. Instead, I imagine that the people who created Taste of Home Entertaining looked at Southern Living at Home, saw a great model of a company and used many of the great aspects of that company as their idealogical base. They built off of that base idea to create a new and different service. Also, I did think it was interesting that TOHE is being called “the most anticipated launch in direct sales history,” but I would not call that statement unethical. Thats like telling Colgate that they are unethical for saying that 9 out of 10 dentists recommend them. Its marketing and its smart.

“Fluff”, not unethical. Fluff is merely poor advertising.

I am glad to find your site- now I know what a good one looks like.

Hi,

I am currently with Lady Emily Natural Cosmetics. I make 50% Commission on all my sales without quotas plus up to 45% on my downline.

What is your comp plan and how many Consultants do you currently have?

LadyEmily Rep,
Last I heard there were just over 2000 consultants who have joined pre launch for May….they are only releasing 3000 kits for those that want to help launch. You earn 25% off your sales and then 10% on your team…up to 3 generations. You begin earning royalties on the first person you bring into the business. There is no monthly quota or minimum unless you want to be paid on your team. The company provides us with a business supply acct, 5% of personal sales, and the company also pays the host/hostess…so our money isn’t used to keep us going…it is kept in our pockets, the night of the show…
Hope some of this helps.

That seems very familiar, except only 3 generations down. That is it?

SAHMMom,

I think a lot of new companies pay 3 generations now. My company, LADY EMILY COSMETICS, pays three generations down too, but as a Sr. Lady Emily Director we pay 26% on your frontline, 13% on your secondline, and 6.5% on your thirdline plus a Mercedes-Benz Car Program on top of the 50% you earn on every sale.

I don’t know how Taste of Home pays downline sales – if it’s just 10% or what.

Best wishes to everyone in 2006!!!

There is also a Director Power Plus program for team builders. I do not have information on that part of it yet, but may be something like a bonus pool. Not sure on that yet.

Lady Emily Rep,
You are paid a % on each consultant level..and then on your 3 generations of directors. There will be 2 trips a year and I imagine that there will be other incentives as well. Being that it is a new startup I can only imagine the possibilities.

I have a chart of the %’s but am not at liberty to post here.

I don’t think you’d be disappointed if you decided to join…it would be a nice addition to your other DS company. Besides if you changed your mind, you’d have over $600 of great quality product!!

Nondy…I see your posts here…you are always so positive!! That is a great quality!!!

Thanks Penny. Actually I can disintegrate into mild sarcasm at times.

I just learned that there are about 2,300-2,400 kits reserved so far. My Launch Team Coordnator received her catalog today, and said we will receive ours inthe next two weeks or so… So far, I have six shows scheduled for May…

I am very tired, but happy!

Nondy

When you say “generations” do you mean “levels”?

A generation would be all of the people involved under a particular rank.

For example, paying down one generation would mean that If I was a director, I would make a % on all of the volume down to and including the next director below me.

Then yes, “levels” would be the more appropriate term.

Nondy

I want to wish everyone the best in our “NEW” career choices. I had heard & seen the information through search & site. I have been working in the Hospitality Field (Executive-Owner) for years. I had also worked in Direct Sales on two different occassions. I foresee this Business doing rather well. There is suddenly becoming a rise again of Home entertaining/dinner parties. Keeping this in mind, will also be the stregnth of the business.
Welcome “ALL” Consultants & Customers.
Melinda

PS. Those w/ the sharp & negative tongues;condolences go out to you
( ;^) gotta love who you are. )

Hello TOHE Gals – I wish each and every one of you much success with your new business and look forward to meeting you all at the convention…

I joined on with TOHE in January but resigned only 2 weeks ago. They’ve got a fabulous and well organized structure with a launch team, however after viewing the catalog, I decided that it looks like everything that is currently out there. I do wish everyone the best though.

My name is Viky and I live in Waco. Is there a way to get this blog feed in my email?

With regard to the catalog, I have shown it to six women today, and already have four more shows scheduled for May and one new consultant in just one day. In fifteen years in this industry, I am having more success and more fun than ever before with Taste Of Home Entertaining. One of these gals is a real estate broker in a large office who is going to have a show for the agents to buy gifts for clients who buy a home. I have never seen a more gorgeous catalog! It’s spectacular! I get lots of comments on how reasonable the prices are! 47% of the products are $25 and under!

I am so excited for those who will see this tremendous opportunity and work hard to make it happen for themselves and their families. Whatever your personal decisions are, I wish you all well,

Nondy

Actually, if you have high-speed internet, I can email you the catalog. Dial up would take three days to load, and you’d not be very happy with me for doing so… I am working on getting it on a web page for you all to see… Just pop me an email request, and I’ll get that out to you ASAP!

Nondy

I’m so excited about the Taste of Home Entertaining opportunity. What a blessing to start with a company like this during the pre-launch.

I was immediately impressed with the business plan as well as the quality and variety of the product line, which is a balance between food preparation and food presentation. There are also decorative items that are just beautiful. The product line has been described as Williams Sonoma meets Crate and Barrel, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable.

The starter kit is just $199 plus shipping and tax and comes with over $650 worth of products plus all the catalogs and business supplies you will need to get started. I’d be glad to email you a picture!

Even if you do not have experience in direct sales, you can succeed in this company with the weekly opportunity and training conference calls.

Please contact me for more information about the company or to join my team.

Great site! I agree with several of the last comments myself. Of course that is just my opinion if it even counts I am researching info on increasing insurance rates and stumbled into your blog. I may try installing one myself and give out logins to potential clients. I will bookmark you for ideas. Thanks and keep bloggin!

Nondy – can you email me the catalog? I’d like to see it before I decide to sign up! thanks!

Maria,

You should have received my email by this time… Hope you enjoy the catalog! If I can answer any other questions for you, please let me know. We’re also having a Training Telecoference call tonight at 8:45 Eastern time…

Have a great week everyone!

Nondy

I’m very excited about the Taste of Home Entertaining opportunity. I am currently already in direct sales, as a Founding Team Leader with a large national team. However, the ground-floor opportunity mixed with the products, I had to join. Just from talking to neighbors and other moms at school I’ve got 4 bookings already!

Is that like a Launch Team Coordinator? I know that there are eight who are direct to the company, and each direct has about five Launch Team Coordinators. Are you one of those?

I am right under a Launch Team Coordinator, and am a Charter Consultant. I don’t think we have anything like “founding” in any of our titles, do we? So far, I have 23 on my fledgling team, and am so excited about that! We are at the beginning of the beginning ofwhat this company will become, and that is a good feeling, I must say.

Nondy

LTrischler ,

Oh, sorry! I misunderstood your post. If I get the innuendo, you are currently with SLAH, and are switching to TOHE? Do I have that right? Since I don’t know anything about SLAH, I wonder why I see so many leaving to go with TOHE? Sorry if this is indelicate, but I wonder what the differences are, and why it seems that so many are making the switch.

Nondy

Nondy,

Can you email me a catalog as well? I am trying to make the decision between slah and tohe. I would love to see the products before signing on.

Brandi

Brandi,

Are you currently working with a Taste Of Home Entertaining consutant? If so, she should be providing you with this information. If not, please send me your email address, and I will get that out to you.

All my best,

Nondy

I am interested in this. I love TOH magazine and the website is intriguing. Could I get a copy of the catalog to peruse through it?

Tamara,

You will also need to send me your email address. I do not have your email or Brandi’s, or I would send, as long as you are not already working with another consultant.

Thnks,

Nondy

I recently signed on as a Charter Consultant for Taste of Home. I am excited to get started! I did not know that a catalog can be emailed. If anyone would be so kind to email it to me even though I’m not on your team, I would be so grateful! I have interested ladies but they want to see the catalog first. My sponsor does not know that this exists via email. Thank you!

Nondy, sorry I missed your question! I was not with SLAH. But with a scrapbook company. I hope to have the same success with TOHE as that! I’m SOOOO excited with the team I’ve met and developed so far and can’t wait to get the product kit next week and get started with the shows!!!

Isn’t anyone disturbed that the company allowed 3,000 people to pay their $199 and then announced that their reps cannot advertise on the internet?

I think a class action suit is in order.

greg

Greg,

I see this so much, especially these days. While most reps are good, regular folks, there are some who do not represent the company well, and those are the ones for whom those policies are created. Unfortunately, those policies affect every rep. Worst case scenario as I see it? I got $600 worth of products for $199. I can decie to do the business or not. The internet is NOT where this type of business is best built.

please send me an online catalog. I can’t find all products on line

I was disappointed with the overall product line and my first party was horrible. Not only was my hostess clueless about most of the products she continually talked about joining “her team”. What an insult. We wanted to have fun and buy some products not run a business. This is just another “Johnny come lately direct sales company” The prices where way to high for the poor quality of products. My grade for this company D+

Rachel,

It does sound like this is not the comapny for you. I do agree that a few of the poducts did not meet my expectations either. I will not be recommeding the flatware, or the goblets. I loved the Sage Bowl, the Napa Tray, The Napa Cookbook Holder, the Pizza Wheel, and the Mario Stitch platters…and those were at reasonable prices.

Should you ecide to do another ompany, hostess coaching is absolutely crucial to your sales, and results. Withkind regards,

Nondy

My first party was not so good. I have to agree that the quality of the products doesn’t go with the prices. The flatware is poor, I’m not taking it with me. I expected a little better after so much hype.

I just received a catalog. I feel sorry for the consultants of Tohe these products are SO over priced!! $26 for a pizza cutter, $13for a vegtable peeler..come on this is so rediculous! This stuff won’t sell except to a very limited # of people. Most people are not going to buy a food chopper from tohe when they can get one from pampered chef that has the quality and gaurentee that no one can beat. Don’t get your hopes up in this business it is going to flop!

From what I have seen of this new company, there are a few things to get worked out, quality control being one of them. Every company has their growing pains, and frustrations, and TOHE is no different.

I don’t mean to sound like a snob, but where I live and shop those prices are the norm. There are those who will be wildly successful, and will make TOHE grow very well. There are those who will achieve modest success, and there will be those who do nothing. I sold three of those supposedly over-priced pizza cutters last night. All I had to do was pass it around, and let them hold it.

The products are nice, but I saw a catalog today and they are a little pricey. I LOVE Pampered Chef products and will spend the money to get their nicer product line. So I’m not afraid to spend money.

TOHE will have to earn respect in the industry. They just don’t have that respect right now, but it could happen. I picked up their magazine today and their style is more “Cracker Barrel” in their magazine.

Pampered Chef may actually benefit in the short run from TOHE’s higher prices. Pampered chef has the loyal following… and customers who stray, may find themselves coming back.

Just a thought.

I don’t see TOHE becoming another Pampered Chef. As I understand the philosophy of TOHE, they take the Inspiration from the magazines and cook books…Give one the Preparation tools necessary (cookware, knives, etc.,) to prepare the meals…then give one the Presentation pieces to complete the circle. Inspiration, Preparation, Presentation., and a little home decor thrown in also. The Napa line is very well received, as is the Gramercy line. The Amber Glass is so much nicer in person than in the catalog, and the Mario Batali Lasagna Pan and Panini Grill Press will be items that will be passed down (enameles cast iron) through generations. 47% of the items in the catalog are $25 and under, so there’s plenty of choice for anyone to begin collecting their favorite TOHE lines…

Pampered Chef has a entertaining line as well, and they are increasing their entertaining side more and more. You can buy something to prepare the food, and serve it in as well.

I think there’s room in the industry for both Pampered Chef and TOHE, but TOHE will have to earn the credibility to demand high prices.

Customers know Pampered Chef is high quality. TOHE is an unknown right now.
( Unless you read the magazine ) I live in the South and have never seen a Taste of Home magazine in the grocery aisle. Not sure what it looks like.

Southern Living Magazine and Better Homes are the two big entertaining magazines.

You’re right that TOHE will have to gain respect, and that will happen over time. I woud venture to suppose that The Pampered Chef also had to gain respect over time, and that that did not happen in their first month in business either. PC has much more kitchen wares, and some serving pieces, and TOHE has fewer kitchen pieces and more serving options and lines (Napa, Gramercy, Tuscan Sage, Itaian Stitch, and Amber Glass lines). I see TOHE as becoming an ENORMOUS success, but that won’t happen overnight either.

We ar very excited to have the “Taste Of Home Cooking Magazine”, the “Every Day With Rachael Ray Magazine”, and all of the Mario Batali lineand cookbooks. I have never picked up a Southern Living Magazine. It always seemed specialzed to the southern region of the US, and would not pertain to me in California. I wonder how well-received Sunset Magazine is in the North East for example?

Sunset is owned by Southern Living Magazine.

That’s great! I think my point was that geographically speaking, unless one wanted to travel there, having a regional magazine would seem to limit it’s nationwide appeal. Thus Southern Living Magazine would not apply to my life, and Sunset would not apply to one’s life in the North East. I apologize if I was unclear.

A “Taste Of Home Magazine” or an “Every Day With Rachael Ray Magazine” would have a more national, rather than regioal appeal…

Where is this company out of? Mid west? Do you cook at you shows like Pampered Chef? I think that is a good approach. Makes you a little different and helps with booking parties.

Do they offer food products too?

Mid-West company. No cooking unless special arrangements are mde with the consultant. Food products will be added next year. Sorry for the terse answers, I am in a hurry right now! LOL!!

Isn’t it a shame that a company cannot begin without all feathers being ruffled. I remember when SL@H began, we had so much negativism from other home decorating companies and I won’t mention any names, now the same is being done to TOHE. My last count, there’s about 300 million people in the U.S. I believe there’s room for all to promote their own product without taking valuable time to belittle others. Many of the SL@H consultants knew Bill Shaw and his contribution in helping establish their wonderful reputation. Many of the SL@H consultants were told over and over how well the Sr. consultants, who began with the company on the ground floor, prosper. We were told over and over how wonderful Bill Shaw was (until he developed his own company.) Financial reasoning was the main agenda for many of us transferring. If someone is working, you want the most for your time. These consultants, including myself, want the same opportunity and hopes as these ladies that we have grown to know since SL@H began. This is no different than transferring from one company to another to advance your career. And it is evident, not only from SL@H consultants, but Pamper Chef, Longaberger, Home Interiors, Tastefully Simple, and so many more, see the same opportunity. Every company has many products that we’d all like to see disappear, but what we like, there are many out there that love the things we don’t. As far as the kitchen products, they are tremendous. Do not degrade them until you have researched the quality. Mario Batali’s kitchen products are extremely quality. They are bold and lasting. I have had 6 parties and the kitchen items are a hit. They carry a life time warranty and they are very attractive. Honestly, I have not found the quality of the stainless steel products and I have from several companies. I remember when SL@H began, there were many problems with products and I’m sure in other companies the same situation. TOHE will have their share of problems, but hopefully, the client and the team will realize and know how new businesses are and will continue to believe in the company. If not…what have you lost? If you do not try to be successful, you cannot say, “If I only had joined Mary Kay in 1963….” Look how successful they are and there’s many cosmetic businesses out there!

I was in Dallas for the SL@H convention a couple of years ago and Time Warner was there to speak to another home business company about falsifying statements about their demise. Rumors were spreading like wildfire that SL was going under. Well, SL is still going strong! Just like any other business, everyone has their slump.

I, for one, can find something I like in any company and my home is here to prove that. I thoroughly enjoy friendships with other consultants as we share ideas and we support each other. I began a group of home business people locally and we have 18 in our group. We meet once a month and when there’s an event, we sign up as a “team.” There’s no cut throat as many on this board sounds. As I have stated, there’s enough business for everyone and enough variety in products to satisfy everyone. There are going to be generic products that you will see in many companies and we have to live with that. I remember when SL@H came out with the DMU plate, I went to CVS and there it set for $5 less (but the size was a little smaller.) SO, should I have written to CVS and complained? lol I don’t think so….
So, ladies and gents, spend more time on positive things and you will get over all of this! Enjoy and work the company you are involved with and learn to be open minded and fair and believe in your product. If you believe in your own, you shouldn’t be intimidated by any other.

hmmmm……you aren’t hearing hardly anything anymore. Looks like the public didn’t get so excited about it.

I am a SLAH consultant, and was approached by my SLAH Director this spring to come to TOHE. I love TOH Magazine- my mother in law has taken it FOREVER! I was a bit surprised that she was so bold in trying to recruit me from SLAH. Recruiting is what these businesses are built on- but you are using your downline as a contact list for recruiting??? I have scoured the TOHE website and while they do have some lovely things, I did see some “Rip-offs” of current SLAH items. Kudos to Bill Shaw for taking his extensive knowlege and success and turning it into another wildly successful Direct Sales Business, but some concerted effort to make things look a little less like SLAH would give less ammo to those who are critical. I was looking at the Monthly Specials Flyer and my husband even said-”that looks exactly like a SLAH flyer”.
Best of Luck to all TOHE, I would be interested in going to a party- the amber glassware looks lovely, and what woman doesn’t aspire to be Rachel Ray!

NYMom…how did you poll the public? Empowering Women Magazine did just that….we have made history…top direct sales company in sales EVER! In less than 6 months and we have over 7000 consultants and in our team alone, we did over 3.5 million in sales! Hmmmm, we’re having it rough, aren’t we?

Like I said, if we weren’t doing so well, then other’s wouldn’t be so upset.

Danna,

I don’t want to stamp on your enthusiasm, but $3.5 Million in sales in 6 months is no where near any sort of record for direct selling.

3.5MM is an understatement….it’s a lot more than that…the figure is more like one month..hehe

7,000 plus strong
40 MM plus in the bank
A Lexus in every driveway

No way I’d join this company, hehe

MY MISTAKE! The company did over $11 million in 8 months….almost 2.5 million (the most in any direct selling company ever) in just the first month! And talk about incentives, we are beginning our brand new car incentive in July!

I wouldn’t have responded, but it was my mistake…I didn’t proofread it before posting and I had not been back to visit this site until the other day and I wanted to clarify my comment.

Again, I don’t mean to rain on anyones parade here, but I really doubt that $2.5 million is the most volume ever for the first month of a direct selling company.

Sounds like the hype machine is at full power.

Good grief – if you like TOHE, go for it; if you like SLAH, go for it. Why do women have to be so catty??!!??

I am entertaining the idea of becoming a TOHE consultant. I was visiting this blog to get any information I could to make an informed decision. I’m trying my best to get my hands on a catalog. Is there anyone out there that could e-mail me a copy?

Thanks!

Just wanted to say that I found the 2007 catalog online. All I can say is wow! I want everything in the book!

Melissa,

Did you sign up yet?

I am interested in learning more about TOHE. I understand that online marketing is not allowed with the company. I would like to ask questions about the company and would like someone with alot of knowledge to contact me. Thanks!

Yes, I did. I have my launch party on April 15th and have already booked two parties right after that. I’m in love with everything in my starter kit! I live in a small town where there is no Target, Pottery Barn, Pier I — just Walmart. Everyone who sees the catalog loves it and because you can’t get the types of things we are selling in our catalog in town, I’m having no problems booking parties!

Where/how can I access the online catalog? Can someone email it to me?

Thanks.

Just to add more selection to the home party market…. what about Swiss Colony Occasions? We sell entertaining pieces and lots of delicious food for every occasion! I’m not familiar with the other companies mentioned above, but I’ve heard from my many happy hostesses and guests that our foods are the most delicious and our prices are more reasonable than others. Plus, our customer service is OUTSTANDING!

Melissa,

Send me your e-mail address and I’ll get the catalog link for you.

Melissa

You guys, you have to check out the new consultant websites from Taste of Home Entertaining. They just added a gift registry for special occasions, birthdays, weddings, housewarming, etc. It is fabulous! I can’t tell you how excited I am about this new feature!

Melissa

I have been with Taste Of Home Entertaining for a little over a year! I am so glad that I made the choice to join and have never looked back. We have our Convention coming up in July in Nashville. Can’t wait!! Very exciting things to come!

Are there any men invloved with TOHE and do they do as well as women with the business?

Gregg, my director has a few men on her team in North Carolina. She told me they do better than some of her women. It’s not about gender – it’s about having a passion for the business. If you have that, you’ll do well – no matter what!

I joined Taste of Home Entertaining in February.
I love it!! I am a federal employee and NEVER thought I would get involved in direct sales but I fell in love with the products. No kidding so I figured what the heck I’ll try it and I’m still at it.
I’d love to help anyone get started.

I saw that TOHE did $11 million in sales and had 7k consultants in 2006. Does anyone know how the company is doing in 2007? If they did $2.5 million the first month it sounds like monthly sales dropped off from there if they only averaged a little over $1 million/month the rest of the year. After all the hype on this forum early on, it sure has died down lately. Just wondering if the company is doing very well financially?

Hello all. I’m a consultant for Taste of Home Entertaining, joined in March of 2007–prior to that I taught high school English for fourteen years.

I just wanted to say that I am proud to be a part of the Taste of Home Entertaining family; the entire experience has been extremely rewarding for me both personally and professionally.

New incentives announced at 2008 conference! Like $70.00 FREE gas each month $1500. in retail sales attained. Opportunity to earn complete digital home offiice: I-phone or Blackberry, Lap top or PC, All in one printer. Taste of Home ENTERTAINING is addressing the needs of us consultants in today’s economy! Contact me to learn more!

If anyone is interested TOHE is having here Hands Across America- Meeting on Sept, 20 Let me know if you would be interested in finding a location near you.